Oscar Wilde 
The Picture of Dorian Gray 

’The Picture of Dorian Gray’ by Oscar Wilde is a classic novel that tells the story of a young man named Dorian Gray and his descent into decadence and corruption. The novel begins with the introduction of Dorian, a handsome and innocent young man who is the subject of a portrait painted by the artist Basil Hallward. Dorian becomes infatuated with the idea of youth and beauty and makes a wish that his portrait will age and reflect the ugliness of his soul, while he remains forever young and beautiful. Over time, Dorian becomes increasingly obsessed with his own appearance and begins to lead a life of excess and immorality, indulging in every whim and desire without consequence. However, as the portrait in his attic slowly takes on a more grotesque appearance, Dorian becomes haunted by the true reflection of his soul and the consequences of his actions. ’The Picture of Dorian Gray’ is a dark and cautionary tale that explores the themes of vanity, morality, and the corruption of the soul, offering a critique of the excesses of late Victorian society